Discover Upper East Side's Hidden Dining Gems


Jamie
Let's try to walk in the city in early morning... You can make amazingly unique pictures and feel unforgettable!


katya ann
MUST TRY spot for MATCHA in nyc 🍵🫶✨ Fellini Coffee: cutest corner cafe in the west village + locations in SoHo/chelsea. Perfect grab & go spot at all locations 💯


katya ann
Palma: MUST TRY ITALIAN restaurant in The West Village, NYC 🍝🤌🇮🇹 An absolute favorite of ours with the coziest interior patio ambiance & insane cacio e Pepe ravioli 💯 also have separate spaces to reserve for large parties! A hidden garden blooming with fresh flowers, nested on quaint Cornelia Street, offering a taste of Italian clean cuisine since 2001✨🌿🌷


Secret NYC
Escape to another (& more colorful) dimension at Bubble Planet! Surround yourself with hundreds of bubbles through 10 mesmerizing bubble-themed rooms at Bubble Planet. Voyage through fantastical, pastel landscapes designed to appeal to all 5 senses. After touring cities like Milan, London, and LA, Bubble Planet has floated its way towards NYC to help you unleash your inner child, and you don’t want to miss out!


katya ann
GRAND BANKS in Tribeca to your NYC summer bucket list 😍 The PERFECT happy hour spot for oysters & cocktails on a boat with the most gorg waterfront sunset views ✨ Tke the scallops & spritz which is the perfect combo + fries & cocktail shrimp for the table 🫶


ResX
Located inside the Mercer Hotel, Sartiano’s at HOTEL (THE MERCER) has taken over the iconic space of the former Mercer Kitchen. Italian heritage modern fine dining experience in the heart of SoHo. While it may not be the best Italian in NYC, the food is solid, and it offers a stylish setting that attracts a lively crowd. Perfect for a night out in SoHo!


ResX
Antidote Chinese Restaurant is a place where the food is designed in order to please all palates🍚 🥢 This Williamsburg Chinese restaurant is a favorite! Antidote‘s menu draws influence from Sichuan and Shanghai. It’s a great spot for a group dinner!
See also
Dining in Great Neck: Discover Local Experiences, Foodie Favorites & Trending Dinner Spots Near NYC


THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
Bar 54 is the tallest rooftop bar in Times Square! And also among the highest in the city. Located at the Hyatt Centric Times Square, Bar 54 offers a really superb river-to-river view, including the Chrysler Building and all of lower Manhattan. The bar serves an impressive drink menu, including a large set of well crafted cocktails, beers, wines in both glass and by bottle, a wide section of whiskey and also some tasty bar bites. The rooftop is open year-round, thanks to a chic and intimate indoor space.


Secret NYC
Take a dip in an NYC pool! On the weekends, The James Hotel opens their rooftop pool to all for free! With unobstructed views of the city, it’s the go-to spot to grab a drink and lounge by the pool. Note: The pool is reserved exclusively for hotel guests Monday – Friday until 4 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday until 2 p.m. The outdoor pool deck is open to JIMMY patrons after 5 pm Monday – Friday and Saturday and Sunday after 3 p.m.


Crown | NYC
Movie night at Bryant Park. See 2024 movie lineup below: 🍿 July 8 - Old School (2003) 🍿 July 15 - Funny Face (1957) 🍿 July 22 - Cinema Paradiso (1988) 🍿 July 29 - How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003) 🍿 August 5 - Arrival (2016) 🍿 August 12 - Titanic (1997) Bring a blanket, invite a friend, and snag your spot on the lawn to watch a feature film on the big screen under the stars. Lawn opens at 5pm and movie starts at 8pm.


Infatuation
Where To Eat Hot Dogs In NYC? Plentiful, relatively cheap, and easy to eat as you jaywalk or wait for a bus, hot dogs are an essential part of New York City cuisine. And Chicago Dogs are officially part of New York City’s hot dog ecosystem, and the ones at Dog Day Afternoon in Windsor Terrace are some of the best. This kitschy little shop keeps a Vienna Beef diagram next to the register, so you can cross-check your dog and make sure it matches up. The poppyseed bun is especially soft and flavorful, and the combination of a Chicago dog with an orange whip on the sidewalk outside the restaurant is one of our favorite meals on a warm day.


Infatuation
If you’re looking for an impressive place to get a table when you didn’t plan weeks in advance, here is a great option. Noho’s C As In Charlie is one of those places that should be harder to get into, but we're grateful that it's not. The neon-red space can make even a Tuesday feel sexy and all of their Korean-Southern dishes cost $16 or less. The next time you need a little weekend energy on a weeknight without having to refresh the reservation page at exactly 9am, plan to come here—especially if you're into the idea of ox bone cream pasta, glaze fried chicken, and seoul'sbury steak with galbi jus and gruyére grits.


newyorkcity.explore
Astoria, Queens is hosting a free Community Cookout Movie Night Series this summer, bringing together local businesses Tikkun BBQ, Astoria Horror Club, and the 31st Avenue Open Street Collective. For three weekends in June, July, and August, the 31st Avenue Open Street will feature free horror movie screenings starting at 8 pm, along with free food like hot dogs and BBQ chicken provided by Tikkun BBQ. The series kicks off this Saturday, June 29th with a showing of the classic vampire film The Lost Boys. Organizers will also be handing out free harm-reduction supplies like Naloxone and fentanyl test strips. Attendees are encouraged to bring their chairs and blankets to enjoy the outdoor movie nights.


THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
Nothing says 'summer' like roof pools NYC. The perfect way to make the most out of a weekend in the big city, is to combine street-level fun with swimming and views at a chic NYC rooftop pool. What used to be Gansevoort Park is now Royalton Park Avenue. The rooftop pool is however the same, and this 2oth floor terrace can boast with one of the best rooftop pools NYC has available. One floor above the Rooftop at Royalton Park Avenue you’ll find this gem. Located in the middle of Manhattan (on Park Avenue, as the name suggests) with mighty views over the skyline with Empire State Building as a cool backdrop.
See also
Discover the Vibrant Community in Great Neck Near NYC: Local Insights, Trending Discussions & Anonymous Posts


Secret NYC
Take in an enchanting concert by flickering candlelight ⭐ Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before in New York. Fever’s popular Candlelight Concerts are better than ever this summer! Take a trip to Long Island and enjoy a Candlelight Summer in picturesque venues such as Guild Hall and With tons of dazzling concerts.


Secret NYC
Catch the year’s last Manhattanhenge Manhattanhenge is when the setting sun aligns with the street grid of Manhattan, illuminating every cross street on the north and south sides of the borough, and the year’s final Manhattanhenge will be on Thursday, July 11th, with the half sun version on Friday, July 12th.


katya ann
Fresh & AFFORDABLE AUSSIE STYLE hand rolls in the West Village 🍣💯✨ for just $12 you can get 3 rolls 😍 8 flavors to choose from with a monthly special! 📍Save this spot for your next takeout night in NYC!!


katya ann
Cha Cha Matcha: another FAVE in the city with multiple locations! The most fun & cute interior design and all whisked on the spot. Minimal food options but tons of fun specialty drinks + matcha soft serve. Make sure to grab a matcha to go before your next train ride in Moynihan station!


ResX
BuvetteNYC The perfect place to brunch in the West Village ☕️ Our server insisted that we get the last order of Pain Perdu (brioche bread with berries & crème) and it did not disappoint!🤤 ✨Pain Perdu ✨Crq Monsieur ✨Jambon Cru ✨Belgian Waffle


Infatuation
A vegan and a meat-eater enter a plant-based Ethiopian restaurant. A couple of hours later, they both leave completely satisfied—and with the newfound knowledge that vegan nacho cheese is far superior to the real (fake) stuff. Such miracles can happen at the second location of Ras Plant Based in Greenwich Village. The menu here is essentially the same as their original spot in Crown Heights, except for the injera nachos, which you must order, because that’s where that melty vegan cheese comes into play. Add on a few cocktails and a mercato platter, with lots of spongy injera for scooping up creamy ground chickpeas, and you’ve got a feast for friends who love legumes, and those who'd normally rather be eating meat.


Infatuation
Carnitas Ramirez has us feeling as elated as we did after watching Dune: Part Two. The small East Village spot from Taqueria Ramirez specializes in carnitas, and they're worth the line you’ll have to wait in. The whole pig is cooked snout-to-tail in big steel vats just behind the counter, and you can pick which parts you want on each $5 taco. Grab at least a few surtida tacos—a multi-textural adventure with bits from the entire pig. For a more focused taco, we like the tender lengua and the savory chamorro. Get a $3 side of chicharron to crumble on top, and load up on the salsa verde at the salsa station.
See also
Networking Events and Trending Community Gatherings in Great Neck Near NYC


Crown | NYC
Have you gone for the kiss on a NYC Ferry ride?


newyorkcity.explore
Discover the vibrant umbrella installation at Hillel Place Plaza! 🌂🌈✨ 💡 Located in the heart of Brooklyn, the colorful umbrellas at Hillel Place Plaza create a stunning and whimsical canopy that transforms the space into a lively and artistic oasis. This installation not only adds a splash of color to the urban landscape but also provides a unique backdrop for photos and a joyful atmosphere for visitors. Whether you're strolling through the plaza, relaxing under the umbrellas, or enjoying the surrounding shops and cafes, this installation brings a sense of fun and creativity to the neighborhood.


nycity__ig
BIRDMEN staying hydrated at Lincoln Center 💦 “Birdmen” by Close-Act Theatre are three gigantic, stilt-walking puppets that roam the campus as part of the BigUmbrella Festival today and tomorrow, July 6 and 7, 2024. These clips were captured this morning. They will perform again today at 5 PM and tomorrow, July 7 at 4 pm and 7 pm. Stay hydrated like the Birdmen!


Infatuation
The Best Late Night Food In NYC: Love Korean BBQ Is it lame to say that the name of this Koreatown restaurant is exactly how we feel about it? Yeah, but it’s too late now. Open until 4am on Friday and Saturday, this fun three-story place has spinning rainbow-colored lights, a bar in the basement, and DJs every weekend after 6pm. They have several combos ($109 to $229) to choose from, which come with a cornucopia of vegetables to throw on the grill. Our favorite is the one with both beef and pork. Add some smoky, peppery japchae and their custardy truffled steamed egg—we’d come here just for those two things.


Infatuation
Lucia Pizza of Soho This is New York, which means you don’t have to settle for a mediocre slice of pizza late at night—instead, you can get one of the best slices. Lucia Pizza's Soho location is open until 3am, Thursday through Saturday (1am during the winter months), and even if you're stumbling and bleary-eyed, you’ll appreciate the moment they take to shower your pizza with basil and parm. There are a lot of standout slices here, so we recommend getting a few—something with red sauce, then also the vodka sauce slice, or the creamed spinach one. It's 350 feet from the A/C at Canal Street, in case that's your next move.


ResX
If pasta is your love language, you’ll want to try the Ricotta Gemelli with chili oil by Saint Theo’s Restaurant 🌶️ This dish is back on the dinner & brunch menu everyday by popular demand! Recs☑️ 🍋Ricotta Gemelli 🍋Lemon Linguine 🍋Branzino 🍋Fusilli Calabrese 🍋Chicken Milanese


ResX
Tucci - New York is NoHo’s newest Italian spot and it does not disappoint! The standout items are the shrimp scampi in an unforgettable lemon garlic sauce and the chicken parm with vodka sauce! Reservations are in high demand, but keep an eye out for openings.
See also
Cocktails in Great Neck: Discover Local Cocktail Bars & Trending Rooftop Bars Near NYC Nightlife


Secret NYC
Cool Down With Broadway Sings Featuring Hits By Taylor Swift & ABBA OK we know Taylor Swift is in Europe but for select dates in July, Swifties can sing and “Shake It Off” to hits at Broadway Sings Taylor Swift. Broadway’s finest singers team up with a 14-piece orchestra to belt out a stellar setlist only on July 14th this month. You can also be a “Dancing Queen” when Broadway Sings ABBA on July 13th and 18th! Highlights 🎤 Enjoy a stunning live concert bringing Taylor’s greatest hits to life ⭐ Performed by stars from Broadway shows such as Hamilton, Six, Waitress, Kinky Boots, Wicked, and Merrily We Roll Along 🎻 Listen to brand new, refreshing interpretations of your favorite songs played by a full orchestra 🍸 Enjoy delicious cocktails and a full menu of food for dinner: $25 food/drink minimum per person, no matter the age (brunch menu available at 1pm shows!) 🎵 Take in the remarkable atmosphere of a beautiful, renowned music venue


katya ann
MUST TRY ITALIAN restaurant in The West Village, NYC 🍝🤌🇮🇹 Ci Siamo: gorgeous, spacious, & chic spot in Hudson yards. Must try the focaccia, onion torta & rapini agnolotti!!
The Ultimate Guide to Local Restaurants in Upper East Side, NYC
Discovering Hidden Gems
When it comes to dining in NYC’s Upper East Side, the area offers an eclectic mix of hidden gems that even the most seasoned foodie might overlook. Starting your culinary journey at local favorites like ‘Uva’ and ‘J.G. Melon’ is a must. ‘Uva’—a cozy Italian restaurant with a charming backyard—brings a delightful taste of Italy to NYC. Don’t miss their truffle gnocchi, a local favorite that keeps patrons coming back for more. Meanwhile, ‘J.G. Melon’ serves one of the city’s best burgers. Locals often rave about the perfectly crispy fries that are simply irresistible.
Farm-to-Table Experiences
For those interested in a sustainable and locally-sourced dining experience, the Upper East Side boasts some exceptional farm-to-table venues. ‘The East Pole’ stands out as a champion of fresh, seasonal ingredients. This upscale spot serves a menu that changes with the seasons, ensuring a fresh and unique experience each time you visit. Don’t miss their brunch menu, where dishes like poached eggs on avocado toast are elevated with farm-fresh produce.
Brunch Hotspots
Brunch is a beloved tradition in the Upper East Side, and local restaurants here do not disappoint. ‘Sarabeth’s’ is an iconic spot that offers a brunch experience to remember. Try their renowned lemon ricotta pancakes or their classic Eggs Benedict. Another popular choice is ‘Maison Kayser,’ a French bakery where each item is as delectable as the next. Indulge in their freshly baked croissants or quiches for a meal that transports you instantly to Paris.
Elegant Dining for Dinner
If fine dining is what you seek, the Upper East Side presents a number of sophisticated options that promise memorable dinners. ‘Café Boulud,’ helmed by the celebrated chef Daniel Boulud, offers an elegant dining experience featuring French-American cuisine. Their seasonal dishes and expertly crafted cocktails make it a perfect destination for a special night out. Another top dinner choice is ‘The Mark Restaurant by Jean-Georges,’ where exquisite dishes like black truffle pizza and seared scallops take center stage.
Trending Eateries and Cocktail Bars
Keeping up with the latest dining trends, the Upper East Side is home to several trending eateries and cocktail bars that provide a modern twist on classic favorites. ‘Treadwell Park’ combines craft beer with gourmet comfort food, offering a lively atmosphere that’s perfect for socializing. Their selection of small-batch brews and artisanal snacks, like pretzel bites with beer cheese, is a hit among locals. For a delightful cocktail experience, ‘The Penrose’ stands out with its inventive drinks and cozy ambiance. The bar’s signature cocktails often feature seasonal ingredients and cater to a sophisticated palate.
Local Insights and Real Opinions
One of the best parts about exploring the Upper East Side’s dining scene is connecting with locals who offer invaluable insights and real opinions. Platforms like Kikihub enable anonymous chats, giving you access to local secrets that can elevate your dining experiences. Through Kikihub, you might learn about a secret menu item at ‘Heidi’s House,’ a quaint, unassuming spot known for its eclectic, homey dishes. Or you could discover the best time to visit ‘Lexington Candy Shop,’ a vintage luncheonette where the milkshakes and quintessential American diner fare have been loved by generations of Upper East Siders. Taking advantage of such local knowledge can make all the difference in uncovering the true essence of Upper East Side’s culinary landscape.